Sardis synagogue

To the South of the palaestra (central square for sports) of the bath-gymnasium complex you will see a while later lies the Synagogue. It was built in 230-250 and rennovated in the 4th century. It was in the form of a basilica, ending in an apse. In front of this one can still see a table like construction for offering, with eagles on its sides and two double-lions standing at their flanks. At the other end of the basilica are some raised pediments for religious purposes. The whole has been restored to an extent where it is hard to decide what’s original. But it works.

One of the eagles on the offering table. I was informed the eagle stands for protection: according to some story eagles teach their young to fly by taking them high into the air and then let loose. If they can, the young will fly on their own wings, if not, the parent will grab them before they come to harm, and try again later.